Depression

Depression may be described as feeling sad, blue, unhappy, miserable, or down in the dumps. Most of us feel this way at one time or another for short periods. Depression can affect people of all ages and is different for every person. The exact cause of depression is not known. Many researchers believe it is caused by chemical changes in the brain. This may be due to genetics, triggered by certain stressful events, or a combination of factors. Women are twice as likely as men to experience depression. The reason for this is unknown but may be associated with changes in hormone levels.

What are the general symptoms of depression?

Crying easily or for no reason

Feeling guilty or worthless

Feeling restless, irritated, and easily annoyed

Feeling sad, numb, or hopeless

Losing interest or pleasure in things you used to enjoy (including sex)

Thinking about death or suicide

Changes in appetite (eating more than usual, or eating less than usual)

Feeling very tired all the time

Having other aches and pains that don’t get better with treatment

Having trouble paying attention, recalling things, concentrating, and making decisions

Headaches, backaches, or digestive problems

Sleeping too much, or having problems sleeping

Unintended weight loss or gain

What are some age-specific symptoms of depression?

Birth through age 2

Feeding problems

Tantrums

Lack of playfulness

Ages 3 to 5

Accident proneness

Phobias and exaggerated fears

Delays or regression in attainment of development milestones

Excessive apologies for minor mistakes

Ages 6 to 8

Vague physical complaints

Overly aggressive behaviors

Clinging to parents

Avoidance of new people and challenges

Ages 9 to 12

Expression of morbid thoughts

Extreme worry about schoolwork

Insomnia

Harsh self-blame for disappointing parents and/or teachers

Ages 13 to 18

Prolonged feelings of hopelessness

Unreasonable feelings of guilt

Irritability, anger, or hostility

Frequent tearfulness

Unusual fatigue and lack of energy

Changes in eating and sleeping habits

Restlessness and agitation

Reduced enthusiasm and motivation

Problems concentrating

Talk of death and suicide

Withdrawal from friends and family

Loss of interest in preferred activities

What causes depression?

Genetics

depression can be hereditary

A medical condition

problems with your thyroid, nutrient deficiencies, or chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, or cancer may cause depression.

Life events

depression can be triggered by stressful events in your life, such as the death of someone you love, a divorce, chronic illness, or loss of a job.